Mr. Dwight Armstrong was laid to rest last Friday, November 23, in Quilcene, Washington. About 40 were present to pay their last respects to a man whose music has played such a vital role in God's Church for almost 40 years. Messrs. Dibar Apartian, Ralph Helge, Herman Hoeh, Roderick Meredith and I were present for the funeral service, which was conducted by Mr. Richard Parker, pastor of the Kent, Washington congregation. Mr. Parker, who did an outstanding job of conducting the service, conveyed to me later how very much encouraged Mr. Dwight Armstrong was by all the letters he received from many of God's people. Mr. Parker said Mr. Armstrong was deeply moved and encouraged during his last weeks, knowing how much his hymns are appreciated by the members.
Mr. Armstrong's sister, Mary Edmondson, of Portland, Oregon, also attended. All present joined in singing the hymn Mr. Armstrong composed from Psalm 141, "Hear My Cry Eternal One," as he had requested during his final hours.
We bade Godspeed to Mr. and Mrs. Dean Blackwell and Mr. and Mrs. Rod Matthews last week. Both families are spending a short time with relatives in the United States before heading for Manila. In addition to conducting a training program for the Philippine ministers, Mr. Blackwell, as the senior-ranking minister, will also serve as Regional Director for the Philippines. Mr. Matthews will assist him with that responsibility, serving as office manager. Please keep the Blackwells and Matthews in your prayers as they undertake their new responsibilities.
By now, most U.S. pastors should have received tapes of sermons given at their congregations' assigned Feast site. Each pastor should have received one set for each congregation he pastors. If you have any problems with your shipment, please notify the Radio Production Department.
Some have asked about Mr. Carn Catherwood's health. Mr. Catherwood, Regional Director for the Italian speaking area, conducted a very successful Feast of Tabernacles in Italy this year, as you read in last week's PASTOR GENERAL'S REPORT. He commented that just a few months earlier he would not have had the strength to handle such a responsibility. But now he is feeling much better, and believes he has been healed of the cancer. He still does not have his full strength back, however, and needs our continued prayers in this regard. As the report last week indicated, God is really blessing the work in Italy. Mr. Catherwood needs God's continued help in fulfilling the responsibilities Mr. Armstrong has assigned him. Thanks for your prayerful support in this important phase, as in all phases of the work of God's Church.
Mr. Herbert Armstrong called early this week from Bangkok and mentioned what a successful trip this has been. He'll have quite a lot of interesting information to relate when he returns. Thank you all for your continuing prayers and faithful service.
FROM MINISTERIAL SERVICES
Worldwide Church of God